Private Whale Watching From Tromsø
A private day on the winter fjords in search of humpback whales and orcas, guided by local captains who know these waters. Each winter the whales follow the herring into the fjords around Tromsø — we go out to meet them, quietly and on their terms.
October – January · Full day · 8 hours
What you can expect
An authentic day on the water
Weather, wildlife and local conditions may change the final plan.
- 01
Morning briefing
We meet at the harbour, review the plan for the day, and discuss conditions and recent wildlife reports. Your guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
- 02
Departure
We head out into the fjords, navigating toward the areas where whales have been reported. The route changes daily based on conditions.
- 03
Searching and observing
Our captain and guide scan the water and communicate with other vessels. When we find whales, we approach respectfully and spend time observing their natural behaviour.
- 04
Hot lunch onboard
We serve a warm meal on the vessel, giving you time to rest, warm up and enjoy the Arctic landscape around you.
- 05
Photography and scenery
The fjords offer dramatic scenery — snow-covered mountains, dark waters and low winter light. Your guide can help with camera settings and positioning.
- 06
Returning to harbour
We head back to Tromsø in the afternoon or early evening, depending on conditions and daylight. The exact timing is flexible.
Wildlife & Nature
The natural environment
The fjords around Tromsø and Skjervøy are known as one of the best places in the world to see humpback whales and orcas from late autumn through winter. The whales follow enormous schools of herring into the fjords to feed, and their presence has made this region a destination for wildlife enthusiasts from around the world. We must be clear: there is no guarantee of whale sightings. The whales are wild animals, and their movements depend on the herring, the weather and conditions we cannot control. Some days are striking. Other days, the fjords are quiet. What we can guarantee is that our team will put you in the best possible position, using local knowledge and real-time information, and that every decision is made with respect for the animals and your safety.
What's included
A day on the water, shaped around you
Private vessel
Just your group and the crew — no crowded decks, no fixed schedule.
Experienced local captains
Decades on these winter waters, reading the sea, birds and current.
Hot drinks & lunch on board
A warm cabin and a proper meal, with the fjord as your dining room.
Thermal suits provided
Proper Arctic gear so you can stay on deck in comfort.
Your crew & guide
Who you'll share the day with
Every private journey is led by a small, dedicated crew who know these waters and wildlife closely.
Skipper · Captain
Håkon Enga
Håkon has spent most of his working life at sea in Northern Norway, with a background in commercial fishing, maritime operations and expedition planning. As founder of Northern Yachting, his aim is to give guests a genuine sense of the place — built on local knowledge, safety and flexibility.
Languages · Norwegian, English
Guide · Marine Biologist
Pelle Ramstedt
Pelle combines scientific knowledge with years of experience working around whales and marine wildlife. As a marine biologist, he brings a depth of understanding to every wildlife encounter that goes far beyond observation. He also handles operational planning and is a skilled chef in Arctic cuisine.
Languages · Spanish, Swedish, Norwegian, English
Plan your private journey
Request a tailored proposal
Contact information
Your journey
This experience is available from October through January.
Submitting this enquiry does not confirm a reservation. Our team will review your preferences and create a tailored proposal for your journey.
Ready to meet the giants of the fjords?
Share your preferred dates and group size, and we'll craft a private day on the water around you — with no fixed route, no crowds, just your journey.
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